Roundtable
This column on issues confronting renters and landlords is written by certified property manager Robert Griswold, author of “Property Management for Dummies,” and by attorneys Steven R. Kellman, director of the Tenants' Legal Center, and James McKinley, member of Moffitt & Associates law firm, which represents landlords.
QUESTION: Many times I have arrived home to a smoke-filled apartment caused by a neighbor who barbecues on his fire escape. Also, the fire escape is full of debris.
ANSWER: Landlord's attorney McKinley: Fire escapes are designed for emergency use, and should not be used for recreation or cluttered with debris. Your landlord should fit the access door or window with a fire alarm to prevent unauthorized use. If your landlord does not respond to your request, complain to your city's code enforcement department.
Tenant's attorney Kellman: Smoke is a chemical released into the air, and is often treated like noise or odors. It is something that can intrude on a neighbor and therefore may be improper and restricted if excessive.
Fire escapes may not hold the sustained weight of a barbecue event, and the accumulation of debris will also impair its intended use.
If you are a tenant or a landlord, the authors will answer your questions, although letters cannot be answered individually. Send concise questions to: Rental Roundtable, Home Section, The San Diego Union-Tribune, P.O. Box 120191, San Diego, CA, 92112-0191. Or you may e-mail them at rgriswold@retodayradio.com.
